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E-Learning (eLearning)
E-Learning Essentials:
What is e-Learning?
What is e-training?
What is Learner-Led e-learning?
What is Facilitated e-learning?
What is Instructor-Led e-learning?
What is Performance Support?
What is Online Learning?
What is m-learning?
What is Learning 2.0?
What are CBT, WBT, CAI, CMI?
What is Instructional Videoconferencing?
What are Audiographic Systems?
What are Personal Learning Environments (PLE)?
How can I find more about e-learning?
What is e-learning?
E-learning is the effective learning process created by combining digitally delivered content with learning support services.
V. Waller and J. Wilson
E-learning consists of the transfer of skills and knowledge using electronic applications and processes.
This may include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms, and digital collaboration, use of audio or video recording, satellite or land-based broadcasts, CD-ROM, and even the phone system.
E-Learning can be broadly defined as any use electronic technology to create learning experiences.
As you can see above, e-Learning encompasses a number of different modalities or the combination of them. Here we will only address a few examples.
For more information use the links above or the links in the left hand side navigation bar.
What is e-training?
E-training is equivalent to e-learning in terms of the use of technology but it refers to the acquisition of practical knowledge, skills, or competencies used in carrying out specific tasks. While the content and instructional design structure in e-training might be focused on the skills or competencies needed for the identified tasks, there is no difference between the technology tool set available for e-learning and e-training.
Learner-Led e-Learning
Learner-Led E-Learning also called stand-alone or self-directed e-learning consist of the delivery of learning experiences to independent learners. The learners then lead/manage their own learning. Content may consist of web pages, multimedia presentations, and computer applications; however, the majority of e-learning now makes use of the web.
Self-determined learning is also known as heutagogy. Heutagogy refers to any type of self-directed learning, however, now a days most of such learning makes use of the Internet or computers technology, therefore, the close association by some between heutagogy and e-learning.
Facilitated e-Learning
Facilitated e-learning makes use of the capabilities of Learner-Led E-learning and add the benefit of having an instructor guiding the learner. This required the use of e-mail, discussion forums, and chat capabilities depending on whether communication will be synchronous or entirely asynchronous.
Instructor-Led e-Learning
Instructor-Led e-learning makes use of technology to deliver traditional classes real-time. This is done via the use of teleconferencing, audio conferencing, chat, audiographic systems (screen-sharing and whiteboards), or even via the telephone.
Performance Support
Electronic Performance Support Systems (EPSS) provide users task guidance and support when they need it (just-in-time). This is done via the use help, reference information, guided instruction, and searchable banks of subject matter expert advice on how to perform a task more effectively, for example.
A number of technologies can be used for these purposes but web technology is often a good match for EPSS as it can deliver text, graphics, sound and video. This kind of capability is also known as "embedded e-learning" when there is no comprehensive EPSS system but some of the above features are offered.
Online Learning
Online Learning takes place via the Web and may include text, graphics, animation, audio, video, discussion boards, e-mail, and testing. Online learning is typically "on demand" and self-directed but may include synchronous chat, web based teleconferencing (audiographics), or similar technology.
m-Learning
M-learning or m-training stand for mobile learning or training. They are delivered via PDA's (Personal Digital Assistant) and wireless devices such as phones. M-learning is one of the fastest growing e-learning areas in terms of technical evolution. Learning for these devices is emerging but with great limitations mostly due to the size of the devices.
Learning 2.0
"Learning 2.0 is an approach that utilizes proven learning principles applied in the context of self-directed or self-directed hybrid learning, Web 2.0 tools, and social networking and collaboration." Harriman, 2008
"Learning 2.0 is an approach not a new theory, it is efficient and effective because it uses time-tested learning principles that parallel our own instinctive learning approaches and enhances them with the access, tools, and collaboration capabilities of the Web. An instructor can adopt Learning 2.0 by guiding learners' through self-directed assignments and collaboration to boost motivation and produce higher level thinking that results in changed learner behaviors." from Learning 2.0: fad, new pedagogical, or something else? Harriman, 2008
In other words, as a learner you can expect a lot more control over your learning in a Learning 2.0 environment. You can also expect to have to network and collaborate with others as part of your learning process, as well as, use a number of web based tools.
What are CBT, WBT, CAI, CMI?
Computer Based Training or CBT consists of e-learning that takes place via programs in a computer. CBT is common in business training and, while there still are a lot of stand alone CBT systems, many are now connected to supporting Internet recourses.
CBT is also known as CBL (Computer Based Learning), CBI (Computer Based Instructions), WBT (Web Based Training), and TBT (Technology Based Training), to mention a few.
Other common acronyms that describe the role of the computer are:
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) - consists of the use of the computer as a self-contained teaching machine to present individual lessons.
Computer-managed instruction (CMI) - consists of the use of the computer to organize instruction and track student progress. The instruction itself does not need to be delivered via a computer but it often is.
Instructional videoconferencing
Videoconferencing uses television to synchronously connect the learners and the instructor. An important part of the videoconferencing system is its CODEC (Coder/Decoder) that compresses video, audio, and data to efficiently transmit them over the Internet, ISDN, DSL, and even telephone lines. The quality of these systems is also measured by their echo cancellation abilities that have a direct effect of the quality of the audio by eliminating feedback and other interference. Videoconferencing systems can be small for single users or can accommodate large conference rooms.
Instructional videoconferencing has been extensively used to teach at a distance. It has the virtue of mimicking the traditional classroom across the miles. With videoconferencing now available from the desktop it is possible to incorporate or merge these capabilities with that of other e-learning modalities.
Audiographic systems
Audiographic systems utilizes a computer for synchronous communication between the instructor and the learner. They typically have a voice component (speaker and microphone), desktop sharing, and whiteboard capabilities. Some audiographic systems also make use of drawing tablets or similar desktop applications. This technology is used for synchronous instruction.
Personal Learning Environment (PLE)
Personal Learning Environments (PLE) allow learners to take control of their own learning. They are the next step in the evolution of e-learning. PLEs may be composed of several interconnected systems to allow formal and informal learning, integration of social networks, web services, RSS, and other resources. The key to PLEs is that they allow the learners to:
- Set individualized goals
- Manage content
- Manage process
- Communicate with other as part of the learning
How can I find out more about e-learning?
As we said above, e-learning covers a wide range of modalities. Many of them are dealt with here in their own sections. Check the links on the left hand side navigation bar for more information or see the articles and books in this section. You can navigate forward in this section with the left and right pointing arrows at the bottom and top of each page.
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